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Mavericks’ Jason Kidd drops a Tim Hardaway Jr. truth bomb amid Thunder series

Originally posted on ClutchPoints | By Joey Mistretta | Last updated 5/13/24

DALLAS — Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, and PJ Washington have led the way for the Dallas Mavericks against the Oklahoma City Thunder in their Western Conference Semifinals series. However, Tim Hardaway Jr. has played an impactful role as well.

Hardaway is inconsistent at times. He scored just two points in Game 1 before dropping 17 points in Game 2. During his Game 2 performance, Hardaway shot 6-10 from the field and 2-4 from beyond the arc.

In Game 3, Hardaway contributed eight points. He offers three-point shooting prowess that is certainly important for the Mavs. However, he finds ways to impact the game in other ways as well. Mavs head coach Jason Kidd discussed Hardaway’s impact before Monday’s Game 4.

“It’s great to have Timmy (Tim Hardaway Jr.) back… We need Timmy to knock down shots,” Kidd said. “And then on the defensive end he competes and gives us a chance to rebound or be able to switch. To have him back and the way he’s playing of late, we’re gonna need that tonight.”

Hardaway missed most of the Mavericks’ first-round series against the Los Angeles Clippers due to an injury. Overall, he has appeared in five postseason games so far during the 2024 NBA playoffs. Hardaway may not make the difference in the series, but he still is an important player.

Mavericks’ depth players making impact vs. Thunder

Dallas Mavericks forward Tim Hardaway Jr. (10) is defended by Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) on a drive to the basket during the second half of game two of the second round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Paycom Center. Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports

The Mavericks have received help from their depth players in the series. Hardaway, Daniel Gafford, Dereck Lively II, Derrick Jones Jr., and Josh Green have all contributed to victories. Again, Irving, Doncic, and Washington are leading the charge. Still, it takes a complete team-effort to win games, especially in the playoffs.

The Mavs lead the series 2-1 as of this story’s writing. Dallas’ depth will play an impactful role on Monday in addition to the rest of the series. And if Dallas wins the series, the Mavs will continue to need impressive performances from role players.

For now, they will focus on taking care of business against the Thunder. It goes without saying, but Game 4 is an incredibly important contest for both teams with the series tied at two games apiece.

This article first appeared on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

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